Dentistry at the University of Rochester

University of Rochester Medical Center - Eastman Institute for Oral Health

Practice Time - Image Source

Collection Facts

Extent:

Dates of Original:

1947 - 1959; 1917 - 1929; 1960 - 1969

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Historical Context

These images, from the University of Rochester's Eastman Dental Center archives, depict the rich history of dentistry in Rochester during the early 20th century, a time when there was a focus on preventive dentistry and advances in dental education. George Eastman, renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, established the Rochester Dental Dispensary to provide dental care for underserved children, as well as practical education for dentists. In addition, Eastman established the School for Dental Hygiene, which brought forth a new vocation for young women.

Scope of Collection

The collection includes photographs of dentistry’s earliest leaders in Rochester, historical dental equipment and procedures, and dental education and care. There are interior and exterior views of the Rochester Dental Dispensary; views of dentists and hygienists performing procedures on patients; and class photographs from the School for Dental Hygiene. There are a couple text materials including: Rochester Dental Dispensary’s State Board of Charities Approval and patient aftercare instructions. Not all of the materials are dated, but most date from the early to mid 20th century.